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by: Linda Robison / Facial Fitness Specialist @ ABZ
For a Botox lip flip, how many units are needed for best results?
Whether you're considering a subtle lip boost or lip rejuvenation, knowing how many units of Botox you need is key. Using too many can cause temporary side effects, while too few may not give the lift you want.
Most people need 4-6 units of Botox for a lip flip, but the exact Botox dosage you may need depends on factors like muscle strength, lip shape, and injector technique.
In fact, there are 5 key secrets that can make or break your results—things most people don’t realize affect how Botox works.
I’ll cover those secrets below, plus, share my own before and after results.
If you've ever wanted a little boost for your lips without committing to expensive filler injections or lip augmentation, a Botox lip flip might be the perfect solution.
This quick, affordable treatment enhances your pout without adding volume.
First things first, let's break down what exactly a Botox lip flip entails.
Unlike traditional dermal fillers that add lip volume, a lip flip works by relaxing the muscles around your mouth. This causes your top lip to gently curl upward and your lower lip (if you get injections into the lower lip) to curl out and slightly downward.
This helps create the illusion of fuller lips without actually adding any volume. It's a non-surgical procedure that's quick, easy, and delivers natural-looking results.
Unlike traditional lip fillers that provide volume, the Botox lip flip is a non-invasive lip enhancement technique that lifts and shapes the lips subtly. It's a simpler alternative to other lip augmentation procedures.
For someone like me, with naturally thin lips and a small mouth, this was the perfect solution. It helps define the shape of the lips with a more natural look than lip filler injections.
Fin out 10 broader benefits of Botox beyond the lip flip.
When it comes to a Botox lip flip, the number of units required can vary based on your facial structure, desired effect, and the expertise of your injector.
The typical dosage range is 2 to 10 units, but most people need between 4 and 6 units for noticeable results.
Keep in mind that this is just a general guideline. Your injector will determine the exact dose based on your individual needs.
But here are some things to consider…
Want a natural-looking, long-lasting lip flip? These 5 secrets can make or break your results.
1. Muscle Strength:
2. Lip Shape and Size:
3. Multiple Lip Fillers:
4. Desired Lip Flip Results:
5. Ethnic Differences in Facial Structure:
But a word of caution here: It's always better to start with a smaller amount of units and asses the appearance of the lips after a week or so. If you're not happy, you can always get another injection. Why? See Side Effects below ...
A skilled injector will be able to assess your unique facial anatomy and recommend the appropriate dosage for optimal results.
Make sure to tell them your goals and your desired lip shape. Your age, medical history, and experiences with past Botox injections can also affect how many units are used.
Getting a lip enhancement treatment is a relatively quick and straightforward process.
The whole procedure took less than 5 minutes.
There's typically no downtime involved, and you can resume your normal activities right away. The biggest issue I experienced was two small red dots at the injection sites. Which is easily covered up with makeup.
After Care:
Results:
Full effects typically appear within 7-14 days as your lip(s) curls outward. You might feel the change before it's visible. Just be patient, it will happen!
Below is my after picture, taken 8 days post-injection.
Looking back, I could have had more units for extra projection, but I’m happy with my results. At my age, subtle improvements always look better than going big. 😉
And that’s the beauty of starting small—you can always add more!
Q: Who’s not a good candidate for a lip flip?
A: Botox lip flip might not be the best choice if you have very thin lips or want dramatic volume. In that case, lip fillers may be a better option.
💡Wonder if fillers will stretch your lips over time. Find out the truth about whether lip fillers permanently change your lips.
Q: How long does 4 units of lip flip last?
A: The duration of a lip flip's effects can differ from person to person. While online sources may suggest it lasts around 4-6 months, many individuals report noticing the effects fading between 4-6 weeks. Personally, I've found that it typically lasts about 6-8 weeks for me.
Q: Can you get too much Botox for lip flip?
A: Yes! That's why it's important to see a qualified injector who has experience with this cosmetic procedure. Remember, it's always better to start with a small amount and add more. However, if you get too many units, you'll have to wait for the botulinum toxin to wear off, which can several weeks. See potential side effects below.
Q: How fast does a lip flip kick in?
A: Full results are usually seen in about 7 days. But, sometimes you may feel the lip curling upward in a few days. I do.
Q: How can I make my Botox lip flip last longer?
A: Avoid massaging the area, minimize intense lip movements for 48 hours, and consider regular touch-ups.
Q: Does it affect kissing?
A: Yes, a lip flip can potentially affect kissing by slightly altering the movement and sensation of the lips. But, most people adjust to it and have no problems.
Q: Who's not a good candidate for a flip?
A: People with allergies to botulinum toxin, certain medical conditions, unrealistic expectations, or active infections in the treatment area. It's important to check with a qualified medical professional if you have any of these issues.
Question: What is a Russian lip flip?
Answer: A Russian lip flip targets more muscles than a regular lip flip. The Russian technique involves injecting Botox into multiple areas around the upper lip, including various muscles that affect lip movement and contour. This broader targeting creates a more defined, lifted appearance.
In contrast, a regular lip flip usually focuses on a few specific spots along the upper lip, mainly relaxing the orbicularis oris muscle to achieve a subtle flip and fuller look. So, the Russian lip flip involves a more comprehensive approach to shaping the lip.
Question: What is a lip flip 5 units all about?
Answer: That's where 5 units of botulinum toxin are injected into the lip area. This is considered a normal dose for most people.
Question: Is 4 or 6 units better for a Botox lip flip?
Answer: It depends on your lip muscle strength and desired results. 4 units is a subtle flip, while 6 units provides more lift.
Question: How much Botox do I need for a lip flip vs. a lip filler?
Answer: A lip flip typically requires 4-6 units of Botox, while lip fillers involve dermal injections to add volume.
Question: How long does a Botox lip flip last?
Answer: Results last around 2-3 months, but longevity depends on metabolism and muscle activity.
Side effects are common in this cosmetic treatments, but they're usually rare and mild. They include:
These subside within a few days and can be easily managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and ice packs.
Note: Having 4 units injected into the upper lip, I did not experience any of these side effects. Remember, results will vary from person to person.
Rare but Severe Side Effects
Receiving more units than needed may lead to rare but severe side effects, such as:
Typically, a lip flip lasts around three to four months, though for some people it could last up to four months.
Why the difference?
Several factors can affect how long it lasts, including:
But, the best way to maintain and prolong the results, is to get touch-up treatments every few months.
Note: In my experience, getting touch-ups can make your results last much longer. That means you won't need as many injections, and you won't have to get them as often. And it's not just true for lip flips—it works for Botox injections in other parts of your face too.
Generally, a lip flip is not expensive. But prices vary depending on where you live and who does your injections.
Also, the cost of a lip flip procedure can vary depending on the type of neurotoxin used (e.g., Botox, Dysport, Xeomin), the amount (units) of product required.
My cost, at the time of injection, was $15 per unit of Botox. So, IMO, $60 for adding a little more pucker to my pout is not bad.😉
If you're thinking about a Botox lip flip for fuller lips, don’t forget to nourish them! Try this DIY lip balm recipe to keep your lips soft, hydrated, and healthy between treatments.
Want to keep your lips looking youthful naturally? Check out these anti-aging lip care tips for simple ways to reduce lip wrinkles, boost lip hydration.
If you're looking to enhance your lips with a subtle touch, a Botox lip flip could be the perfect solution.
With just a few Botox units (typically 4-6), you can achieve fuller-looking lips and a more youthful smile, without the commitment or cost of lip fillers.
Some injectors also use a microdosing technique, starting with just 2-3 units and gradually adding more for natural-looking results without compromising movement.
No matter what you read online about Botox lip flip dosages, the best approach is to consult with a qualified injector who can tailor the treatment to your unique lip shape and goals.
With the right dosage and technique, a Botox lip flip can enhance your overall appearance and boost your confidence.
About the Author:
Linda Robison is a Facial Fitness Specialist and the founder of Anti-Aging Beauty Zone. She shares expert insights on skincare, facial rejuvenation, and beauty treatments—blending traditional wisdom, personal experience, and science-backed research for both at-home and in-office solutions.
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